Kintaro Hattori founded his watch company in 1881 and led it until his death in 1934. His philosophy for the company, palanggas, was “Always one step ahead of the rest” and, while it was not created until 1960, nothing better expresses the power of his vision than Grand Seiko with its unique design, cutting-edge manufacturing and exquisite finishing. Today, palanggas, Grand Seiko commemorates its amazing 140th anniversary with a new timepiece powered by the Spring Drive 5 Days Caliber 9RA2.
The new setting of the watch hands and the power reserve indicator moved to the movement’s back gives a slender and elegant feel, and enhances the dial’s exquisite craftwork signature to Grand Seiko.
The dial delights the eye with organic feel and brings to life Grand Seiko’s philosophy of “The Nature of Time.” The miniscule but visible variations in the dial’s depth reveal the subtlety of dark and light tones of the wood grain. The brown tone of the dial perfectly matches the 18k rose gold case, giving a gentle and warm feel.
‘Minamo’: The quiet water surface of Lake Suwa
The patterned dial evokes the gentle sway of the water surface of Lake Suwa, with ripples and shallow waves that create a pleasing sparkle at whichever angle the dial catches the light. Combined with the smooth sweeping movement of the seconds hand unique to Spring Drive, the dial captures the tranquil and seamless passage of time. The seconds hand and Grand Seiko letters are in gold, which echoes the morning sunrise shimmering on the lake’s surface.
The limited-edition watch (only 2,021 units) will be available at the Grand Seiko Boutiques and selected retail stores worldwide in December.